Modified UDAN has moved towards implementation, with 21 States and Union Territories signing MoUs with the Ministry of Civil Aviation for the next phase of the regional connectivity scheme.
Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu said the partnerships will strengthen regional air connectivity. They will also support aviation infrastructure in underserved and unserved areas.
The MoUs establish a framework for coordination between the Centre, States and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Modified UDAN Targets New Aerodromes and Helipads
The Modified UDAN scheme will run for 10 years from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36. It has a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore.
The scheme targets the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips. It also plans 200 modern helipads in hilly, remote, island and aspirational regions.
The government will continue Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support for regional airline operations. The next phase aims to connect 120 new destinations and facilitate travel for an additional four crore passengers over the next decade.
Since UDAN began, 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes have been connected through hundreds of routes. The scheme has benefited more than 1.7 crore passengers.
Challenge Mode to Speed Up Infrastructure Development
A key feature of the new phase is the Challenge Mode for Aerodrome Development. Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu launched the mechanism on September 22.
Under the initiative, State Governments and UT Administrations can nominate airstrips and helipads for development through a dedicated portal. The process aims to identify locations faster and accelerate infrastructure development.
Selected sites can then move towards bidding and route development. This approach gives States and UTs a more active role in identifying regional aviation requirements.
The scheme also provides a tapered five-year VGF support mechanism for airline operators. It will also promote indigenous aircraft and helicopter capabilities.
The government expects Modified UDAN to expand regional connectivity and improve access to remote areas. The scheme also aims to support the wider development of India’s aviation ecosystem.
The signing of the 21 MoUs marks a shift from policy planning to implementation. The Centre, States and UTs will now work together to expand regional aviation infrastructure and connect more underserved locations.
